Following Trump’s Attack on Planned Parenthood, Senate Democrats’ Plan to Fund Women’s Health Care Moves Forward
HARTFORD – Today, the Human Services Committee voted to advance one of Senate Democrats’ foremost priorities this legislative session, Senate Bill 4, “An Act Concerning Increased Funding to Planned Parenthood and Other Family Planning Clinics.” If approved, the legislation would close a funding gap caused by President Donald Trump’s changes to the Title X Family Planning Program. The vote to raise the bill by the Human Services Committee was required for the bill to receive a public hearing. All Democratic members of the Human Services Committee supported the bill but it was opposed by five Republicans on the committee.
“Today’s decision by Republicans to vote ‘no’ to raise Senate Bill 4 further underscores that they are in lockstep with President Trump,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven). “President Trump’s gag order on Title X funding was an assault on women’s health care. As a caucus, Senate Democrats made it a priority to provide state funding to Planned Parenthood and other family planning clinics to counter this loss of federal funding. Despite the lack of Republican support, we will continue to fight so that women receive the essential healthcare they need and put forward policies that fight back against the disgraceful agenda of the White House and those in the legislature that support it.”
“Unfortunately, it should surprise no one that Connecticut Republicans voted no to raise Senate Bill 4, a bill that would increase funding to Planned Parenthood and Title X family planning clinics,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk). “In anticipation of a reduction in federal funding, Senate Democrats have been steadfast in ensuring that women have access to the necessary healthcare services. It’s unfortunate that only one party supports providing funding and access to healthcare and family planning, but this is the reality of living in Donald Trump’s America. Regardless of Republican inaction, Senate Democrats will continue to advocate on behalf of women in Connecticut to protect and provide funding to family planning clinics across the state. We know that healthcare is a right and no one should have the power to deprive individuals of the services they need – not even the President of the United States.”
In response to a gag order issued by the Trump administration prohibiting health care providers from counseling patients about abortion, Planned Parenthood announced it will no longer receive Title X funding to avoid it. Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, which operates 12 health clinics in Connecticut, would forego $2.1 million in federal funding under that rule, about 5 percent of its budget. While 20 states are challenging the gag order, a federal appeals court ruled the policy changes can take effect despite the lawsuits.
Senate Bill 4 would fill the funding gap, providing state Title X family planning clinics in Connecticut with an additional $2.4 million in funding.
Planned Parenthood of Southern New England statistics show that nearly 44,000 patients received services and support through Title X funding in 2017. One-third of those patients were under the age of 25, one-third of those patients earned less than $12,000, one-third were Latino and one-third were African American.
Public Health Committee Holds Public Hearing on Potential Repeal of Non-Medical Exemption from Immunizations
Public Health Committee Holds Public Hearing on Potential Repeal of Non-Medical Exemption from Immunizations
HARTFORD – Today, the Public Health Committee held a public hearing for discussion and comments on proposed legislation that would potentially repeal the state’s non-medical exemption on immunization.
“This is a conversation we need to have, and one we maybe should have had a long time ago,” said Sen. Daugherty Abrams. “When you look at the data and see the exponential growth of non-medical exemptions in our state, it causes one to take pause and wonder if we’re doing the best we can for our children, particularly when it comes to their ability to come to school safely. We’re all here because we care about kids and want to act in their best interest. I’m very much interested in hearing what the public has to say. “
“We’re elected to lead,” Sen. Daugherty Abrams said. “We don’t want to see the tipping point where we pass the point of no return. We are elected to look at information and make the best judgment for our constituents and the people of Connecticut. That’s why we put this bill in to act on it right away, and it’s our intent for it to go into effect as quickly as possible. We know that people are understandably anxious about the future of this policy, and we want to address this issue one way or another as quickly as possible so families can have answers about the future of Connecticut’s immunization requirements.”
“Not a lot of clinicians have had an opportunity to see patients suffering from the illnesses we’re talking about. I have volunteered in several third-world countries and seen polio, measles, mumps and rubella, many of these illnesses we are talking about, and I wouldn’t wish them upon anyone in the world if I had my way,” said Sen. Anwar. “These are associated with, if not death, multiple long-term life-changing issues. Had there not been vaccines, 10,000 more children would die annually, health care costs would skyrocket and cases of illnesses would rise. This is what is at stake. It is very easy to give up responsibility under pressure, but the reality is the policies we’re looking at will have long-term impact to save children.”
“An Act Concerning Immunizations” will protect public health by ensuring adequate and appropriate vaccinations of children. The bill will do this by eliminating the non-medical exemption for immunizations. Children and patients with medical reasons for not receiving immunizations will be unaffected by the legislation. It requires a child to get required immunizations, such as MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), and any additional ones deemed necessary by a doctor, unless a medical professional determines the child or individual is exempt for medical reasons.
Individuals would need to be immunized or placed on a modified immunization schedule prior to the first day of the 2020-21 school year whether in grade school, higher education or day care.
The language allows for a child previously exempt using a non-medical exemption to assert a medical exemption for immunizations if a medical professional determines such an immunization should not be used.
The bill would also allow for the Department of Public Health to release annual immunization rates for each public and nonpublic school in the state, create a uniform certificate for medical exemptions, and establish an Advisory Committee that would provide guidance regarding exemptions from immunization requirements.
Public Health Committee Holds Public Hearing on Potential Repeal of Non-Medical Exemption from Immunizations
Public Health Committee Holds Public Hearing on Potential Repeal of Non-Medical Exemption from Immunizations
HARTFORD – Today, the Public Health Committee held a public hearing for discussion and comments on proposed legislation that would potentially repeal the state’s non-medical exemption on immunization.
“This is a conversation we need to have, and one we maybe should have had a long time ago,” said Sen. Daugherty Abrams. “When you look at the data and see the exponential growth of non-medical exemptions in our state, it causes one to take pause and wonder if we’re doing the best we can for our children, particularly when it comes to their ability to come to school safely. We’re all here because we care about kids and want to act in their best interest. I’m very much interested in hearing what the public has to say. “
“We’re elected to lead,” Sen. Daugherty Abrams said. “We don’t want to see the tipping point where we pass the point of no return. We are elected to look at information and make the best judgment for our constituents and the people of Connecticut. That’s why we put this bill in to act on it right away, and it’s our intent for it to go into effect as quickly as possible. We know that people are understandably anxious about the future of this policy, and we want to address this issue one way or another as quickly as possible so families can have answers about the future of Connecticut’s immunization requirements.”
“Not a lot of clinicians have had an opportunity to see patients suffering from the illnesses we’re talking about. I have volunteered in several third-world countries and seen polio, measles, mumps and rubella, many of these illnesses we are talking about, and I wouldn’t wish them upon anyone in the world if I had my way,” said Sen. Anwar. “These are associated with, if not death, multiple long-term life-changing issues. Had there not been vaccines, 10,000 more children would die annually, health care costs would skyrocket and cases of illnesses would rise. This is what is at stake. It is very easy to give up responsibility under pressure, but the reality is the policies we’re looking at will have long-term impact to save children.”
“An Act Concerning Immunizations” will protect public health by ensuring adequate and appropriate vaccinations of children. The bill will do this by eliminating the non-medical exemption for immunizations. Children and patients with medical reasons for not receiving immunizations will be unaffected by the legislation. It requires a child to get required immunizations, such as MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), and any additional ones deemed necessary by a doctor, unless a medical professional determines the child or individual is exempt for medical reasons.
Individuals would need to be immunized or placed on a modified immunization schedule prior to the first day of the 2020-21 school year whether in grade school, higher education or day care.
The language allows for a child previously exempt using a non-medical exemption to assert a medical exemption for immunizations if a medical professional determines such an immunization should not be used.
The bill would also allow for the Department of Public Health to release annual immunization rates for each public and nonpublic school in the state, create a uniform certificate for medical exemptions, and establish an Advisory Committee that would provide guidance regarding exemptions from immunization requirements.
Public Health Committee Holds Public Hearing Wednesday On Potential Repeal Of Non-Medical Exemption From Immunizations
Public Health Committee Holds Public Hearing Wednesday On Potential Repeal Of Non-Medical Exemption From Immunizations
HARTFORD – Today, the Public Health Committee held a public hearing for discussion and comments on proposed legislation that would potentially repeal the state’s non-medical exemption on immunization.
“This is a conversation we need to have, and one we maybe should have had a long time ago,” said Sen. Daugherty Abrams. “When you look at the data and see the exponential growth of non-medical exemptions in our state, it causes one to take pause and wonder if we’re doing the best we can for our children, particularly when it comes to their ability to come to school safely. We’re all here because we care about kids and want to act in their best interest. I’m very much interested in hearing what the public has to say. “
“We’re elected to lead,” Sen. Daugherty Abrams said. “We don’t want to see the tipping point where we pass the point of no return. We are elected to look at information and make the best judgment for our constituents and the people of Connecticut. That’s why we put this bill in to act on it right away, and it’s our intent for it to go into effect as quickly as possible. We know that people are understandably anxious about the future of this policy, and we want to address this issue one way or another as quickly as possible so families can have answers about the future of Connecticut’s immunization requirements.”
“Not a lot of clinicians have had an opportunity to see patients suffering from the illnesses we’re talking about. I have volunteered in several third-world countries and seen polio, measles, mumps and rubella, many of these illnesses we are talking about, and I wouldn’t wish them upon anyone in the world if I had my way,” said Sen. Anwar. “These are associated with, if not death, multiple long-term life-changing issues. Had there not been vaccines, 10,000 more children would die annually, health care costs would skyrocket and cases of illnesses would rise. This is what is at stake. It is very easy to give up responsibility under pressure, but the reality is the policies we’re looking at will have long-term impact to save children.”
“An Act Concerning Immunizations” will protect public health by ensuring adequate and appropriate vaccinations of children. The bill will do this by eliminating the non-medical exemption for immunizations. Children and patients with medical reasons for not receiving immunizations will be unaffected by the legislation. It requires a child to get required immunizations, such as MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), and any additional ones deemed necessary by a doctor, unless a medical professional determines the child or individual is exempt for medical reasons.
Individuals would need to be immunized or placed on a modified immunization schedule prior to the first day of the 2020-21 school year whether in grade school, higher education or day care.
The language allows for a child previously exempt using a non-medical exemption to assert a medical exemption for immunizations if a medical professional determines such an immunization should not be used.
The bill would also allow for the Department of Public Health to release annual immunization rates for each public and nonpublic school in the state, create a uniform certificate for medical exemptions, and establish an Advisory Committee that would provide guidance regarding exemptions from immunization requirements.
Sen. Anwar Joins Governor Lamont, East Hartford Delegation at Debut of UTC-Funded Jet Engine Testing Facility in East Hartford
Sen. Anwar Joins Governor Lamont, East Hartford Delegation at Debut of UTC-Funded Jet Engine Testing Facility in East Hartford
EAST HARTFORD – State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) joined a coalition of state and local leaders today including Governor Ned Lamont, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, U.S. Representatives John Larson and Richard Blumenthal, State Representatives Jason Rojas, East Hartford Mayor Marcia Leclerc and East Hartford Town Council Chairman Richard Kehoe at the debut and ribbon-cutting for United Technologies Research Center’s new UTC-funded jet engine compressor testing facility.
“It is immensely gratifying to know our region has dedicated leaders investing in our collective future,” said Sen. Anwar. “This new facility at UTC is state-of-the-art and represents their commitment to East Hartford and our community. I am honored to be here and will continue to support UTC as it prepares for the future of engine testing.”
The lawmakers joined UTC leaders Monday for the official opening of the facility, which represents an investment of $40 million dollars into jet engine testing components. UTC representatives said the investment gives the company the ability to remain on the cutting edge of engine development technology, solidify East Hartford as its global innovation hub and create new opportunities for high-value, skilled work in East Hartford.
The facility also represents an opportunity for revitalizing and improving air travel. These advanced in-house compressors provide a true opportunity for increasing sustainability and efficiency of engines. This wouldn’t just lower the costs of operation in the future, but would also allow for environmental savings reducing use of fossil fuels by significant amounts.
Senator Haskell Celebrates 2020 Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Awardees in New Canaan
Senator Haskell Celebrates 2020 Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Awardees in New Canaan
Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) celebrated the four organizations in New Canaan that received grants through the Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund on February 10. These organizations, including theaters and performance groups, received financial support from the state.
“I’m very excited to see the state provide important support for our local organizations, which do so much work fostering the arts in our community,” said Sen. Haskell. “I’m grateful to the Department of Economic and Community Development for their commitment to our region.”
The organizations receiving grant funding include:
- KEYS, $6,312
- New England Dance Theater, Inc., $598
- Silvermine Guild of Artists, Inc., $5,451
- Summer Theatre of New Canaan, $3,403
Senator Haskell Celebrates 2020 Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Awardees in Ridgefield
Senator Haskell Celebrates 2020 Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Awardees in Ridgefield
Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) celebrated the seven organizations in Ridgefield that received grants through the Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund. These organizations, including museums, playhouses and performance groups, received significant support from the state.
“Ridgefield is full of incredible groups and volunteers who add culture and beauty to the local community. I’m glad the state took notice,” said Sen. Haskell. “I am happy to celebrate these grants and would like to thank the Department of Economic and Community Development for supporting the arts in Ridgefield.”
The organizations receiving grant funding include:
- Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, Inc., $11,109
- Ridgefield Chorale, $613
- Ridgefield Playhouse, $13,835
- Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra, $1,880
- Ridgefield Workshop for the Performing Arts, $1,232
- Thrown Stone Theatre Company, $550
- Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra, $500
Senator Haskell Celebrates 2020 Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Awardees in Westport
Senator Haskell Celebrates 2020 Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Awardees in Westport
Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) celebrated the three organizations in Westport that received grants through the Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund on February 10. These organizations received significant support from the state.
“Everyone in Westport knows we have excellent arts organizations, and I’m happy to announce the state agrees,” said Sen. Haskell. “I’m grateful to the Department of Economic and Community Development and the Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund for supporting our community.”
The organizations receiving grant funding include:
- Friends of the Levitt Pavilion, Inc., $8,286
- Music for Youth, Inc., $7,101
- Westport Country Playhouse, $9,073
Senator Haskell Celebrates 2020 Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Awardees in Wilton
Senator Haskell Celebrates 2020 Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund Awardees in Wilton
Today, State Senator Will Haskell (D-Westport) celebrated the two organizations in Wilton that received grants through the Connecticut Arts Endowment Fund on February 10. These organizations were chosen for their contributions to local arts and culture.
“Wilton has a history of impressive and awe-inspiring arts organizations, and I’m so happy the state chose to recognize them,” said Sen. Haskell. “I’m grateful to the Arts Endowment Fund and Department of Economic and Community Development for supporting our community.”
The organizations receiving grant funding include:
- Music on the Hill, Inc., $1,344
- Weir Farm Art Center, Inc., $500
Senator Needleman Announces Start of Department of Transportation Construction for Arrigoni Bridge Rehabilitation in Middletown, Portland
Senator Needleman Announces Start of Department of Transportation Construction for Arrigoni Bridge Rehabilitation in Middletown, Portland
Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) announced the Department of Transportation will begin construction of rehabilitation on the Arrigoni Bridge approach span, which carries Routes 17 and 66 in Middletown and Portland, on February 27. This work, which will continue as one part of a larger project slated to continue through February 2022 and will coincide with simultaneous work on the Saint John’s Square/Main Street intersection operational improvement project in Middletown.
Work on this bridge project will consist of replacing its bridge decks, upgrading its superstructure steel upgrades and general repairs. The substructure will also be repaired to improve overall structural capacity, reliability and integrity, with an additional protective fence ranging from eight to 12 feet in height added to the bridge’s approach and main spans.
Construction will occur in three separate stages to maintain traffic flow while allowing adequate space for work to continue. On Routes 17 and 66, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction with the use of temporary concrete barriers, which will be in place for a maximum of 18 months.
Lanes will be closed along the following guidelines:
- Route 66 (Main Street) will be closed Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.; on weekends, it will be closed from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.
- Route 66 (Washington Street) will be closed Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.; on weekends, it will be closed from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.
- Route 17 (Hartford Avenue) will be closed Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.; on weekends, it will be closed from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.
- Route 17/66 will be closed Monday-Friday from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.; on weekends, it will be closed from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.
- SR 545 (Washington Street) will be closed Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.; on weekends, it will be closed from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.
This project is scheduled to be completed February 25, 2022. Motorists should be aware modifications or extensions to the schedule could become necessary in the event of weather delays or other complications; they are advised to maintain a safe speed while driving.